Mediterranean orzo salad is one of those dishes I keep coming back to. It’s fresh, colorful, and packed with bold flavors. It’s the kind of meal that works just as well for a light lunch as it does as a side dish for dinner.

The first time I made this salad, I wanted something that was filling but didn’t feel heavy. I had orzo in my pantry, a few fresh veggies in the fridge, and some feta cheese that needed to be used. After tossing everything together with a lemony dressing, I knew I had a winner. The flavors reminded me of my favorite Mediterranean dishes—bright, herby, and satisfying without being too rich.

Now, I make this salad all the time, whether I’m meal prepping for the week or bringing something to a potluck. It’s easy, delicious, and always a hit.

Servings	Total
6	20mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I’ve always loved Mediterranean food—fresh ingredients, simple seasonings, and bold flavors. My first real introduction to Mediterranean orzo salad was at a friend’s dinner party. She served a version of it alongside grilled chicken, and I was hooked.

When I asked for the recipe, she laughed and said, “It’s just orzo, fresh veggies, and whatever Mediterranean ingredients you like!” That gave me the confidence to experiment with my own version at home. Over time, I adjusted the ingredients, played around with different dressings, and landed on this combination, which has become a staple in my kitchen.

Why Mediterranean Orzo Salad?

There are so many reasons to love this dish! Here’s why it’s one of my favorites:

Light and Fresh: The lemon dressing gives it a bright, refreshing taste.
Packed with Flavor: Feta, olives, and fresh herbs add a bold Mediterranean touch.
Quick and Easy: It comes together in about 20 minutes.
Great for Meal Prep: Stays fresh in the fridge for days.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it as a side, a main dish, or even bring it to a gathering.

What Is Mediterranean Orzo Salad Made Of?

This salad is a mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and Mediterranean staples. Here’s what goes into it:

Orzo Pasta: A small, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up all the flavors.
Cherry Tomatoes: Adds sweetness and color.
Cucumber: Brings a refreshing crunch.
Red Onion: A bit of sharpness for balance.
Kalamata Olives: Briny and bold.
Feta Cheese: Creamy and slightly tangy.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and basil for brightness.
Lemon Dressing: Olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and seasonings.

What to Have with Mediterranean Orzo Salad

This salad pairs well with many dishes. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:

Grilled Chicken or Salmon: The light, zesty flavors complement grilled proteins perfectly.
Hummus and Pita Bread: A great option for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Falafel: The salad’s freshness balances the crispy falafel.
Grilled Vegetables: Serve with zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers.
Lamb or Beef Kebabs: A delicious, hearty pairing.

Is Mediterranean Orzo Salad Healthy?

Yes! This salad is loaded with fresh vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil, and protein from feta cheese. If you want to make it even healthier, you can:

Use whole wheat orzo for added fiber.
Reduce the amount of feta if watching dairy intake.
Add chickpeas for extra protein.

Kitchen Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:

Medium pot (for cooking orzo)
Colander (for draining pasta)
Mixing bowl (for tossing the salad)
Cutting board and knife (for chopping veggies)
Whisk (for mixing the dressing)

Ingredients

For the Salad:

1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

For the Lemon Dressing:

¼ cup olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried oregano

Directions:

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions (8-10 minutes).
Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion.
Slice the Kalamata olives and crumble the feta cheese.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Add the crumbled feta and fresh herbs, then toss again.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for an hour to let the flavors meld.
Enjoy as a side dish or add protein to make it a full meal.

Tips

Rinse the Orzo: This prevents it from sticking together.
Use Fresh Lemon Juice: It makes a huge difference in flavor.
Let It Rest: Letting the salad sit for a while helps the flavors blend.
Make It Vegan: Skip the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours in the fridge.

How long does Mediterranean orzo salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Couscous, quinoa, or even small pasta shapes like ditalini work well.

Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great additions.

What’s the best way to serve this salad for a party?
Serve it in a large bowl with a serving spoon, or portion it into small cups for easy grab-and-go servings.

Conclusion

Mediterranean orzo salad is fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and works as a side dish or a main meal. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout or packing it for lunch, this salad is sure to be a favorite. Try it out and enjoy every delicious bite!

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